The start of a new waterfront landmark

Construction on the city’s newest waterfront landmark officially began this morning, with the ground breaking ceremony for the Viaduct Events Centre held at the Halsey Street wharf construction site.

Councillor Greg Moyle, chairperson of the council’s Arts, Culture and Recreation Committee, who broke ground at the ceremony, says, “Today, we see a prominent landmark on Auckland’s waterfront start to take shape. The Viaduct Events Centre is a critical piece of the big puzzle that encompasses the whole of the city’s waterfront.”

“It is the first project to start construction in the Wynyard Quarter area. This part of the waterfront will soon be a buzz of activity with Gateway Plaza, North Wharf and the interim pedestrian and cycle bridge, all to be completed in the next year or two.”

Hawkins Construction, which was awarded the contract to build the 6000m2 events centre, officially took over the site at the end of March to prepare for construction. The company is working to a fixed schedule to ensure that the building is complete by July next year.

Auckland Mayor John Banks believes that this is a significant project for economic growth in Auckland. “The Viaduct Events Centre will create jobs and generate millions of dollars to the Auckland economy each year from local and international events," says Mr Banks.

The multi-purpose facility will offer flexible exhibition, meeting and hospitality space on Auckland’s vibrant Viaduct Harbour. Expected to be completed and in use by Rugby World Cup 2011, the facility will offer external public spaces close to the water’s edge offering spectacular views of the Waitemata Harbour and the city skyline.

Architect Gordon Moller from Moller Architects, says, “I think the Viaduct Events Centre will be a spectacular building within the Viaduct Harbour precinct. The concept for the Viaduct Event Centre on the waterfront is for an elegant glass pavilion opening onto the Halsey St Wharf on all sides to interact with the public promenades and wharf areas.”

“A lyrical wave form roof over generous display halls and meeting rooms will give a strong maritime feel and suit the wide variety of events and functions that the centre is designed for. All the spaces will also have dramatic views to the waterfront”.

Key facts about the Viaduct Events Centre:

o the facility will offer 6000m2 of event space
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o it will be able to accommodate up to 3600 people
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o the Viaduct Events Centre will have the potential to generate up to $128 million of additional expenditure in the Auckland region.
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o it will be located just a few minutes walk from some of Auckland's best accommodation and entertainment offerings, as well as the city centre and public transport services.
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o the first confirmed booking is for the Auckland Art Fair in 2011 with current negotiations to hold two other international events before Rugby World Cup 2011
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o architects of the building, Moller Architects have won more than 60 awards for their work. Previous work includes Auckland’s Sky Tower, Ormiston Bridge in Manukau, New Lynn Library and SkyCity Convention Centre.
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For more information about the Viaduct Events Centre, visit www.aucklandcity.govt.nz/eventscentre

ENDS

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